UIDAI Revises Aadhaar Name Update Rules and Documentation

UIDAI Introduces a Revised Name Update Framework

UIDAI Revises Aadhaar Name Update Rules and Documentation: The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) issued a revised Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) on 18 September 2026 for updating names in Aadhaar through the exception-handling process. The new framework replaces the earlier procedure and distinguishes between minor corrections and major changes that may alter a holder’s identity.

The revised rules specify when applicants must provide identity documents, relationship records, affidavits or Gazette notifications. The aim is to standardise name-update requests while strengthening the verification of identity-related changes.

Static GK fact: UIDAI functions under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) and administers the Aadhaar system under the Aadhaar Act, 2016.

Minor Name Changes and Required Documents

Minor changes are those in which the person’s identity remains substantially unchanged. Examples include expanding an abbreviation into a full name, shortening a full name, adding or removing a middle name or surname, rearranging name components, and correcting English spelling errors to reflect phonetic pronunciation.

For these changes, Proof of Identity (PoI) is applicable under the revised procedure. In cases involving children and the Head of Family (HoF)-based process, the required PoI or Proof of Relationship (PoR) may also be requested.

Static GK Tip: Aadhaar is a 12-digit unique identification number issued to eligible residents of India. It serves as proof of identity, but it is not proof of citizenship.

Name Changes After Marriage or Divorce

UIDAI has prescribed a separate process for name changes following marriage or divorce. Applicants must submit the prescribed affidavit along with applicable PoI. Such requests are treated differently from complete changes of name.

The SOP also provides a distinct procedure for name updates associated with a change in gender, subject to the applicable identity-document requirements.

Correcting Errors Made During Aadhaar Entry

A separate mechanism applies when the document supplied during enrolment or an earlier update contained the correct name, but the name was entered incorrectly in Aadhaar.

For adults, the procedure requires a prescribed affidavit along with applicable PoI or PoR. For minors, the prescribed affidavit for minors and the relevant supporting documents are required.

Certain formatting corrections, such as removing irregular capitalisation and deleting dots, may be made without additional documents when the prescribed process permits them.

Restrictions on Names and Special Terms

Aadhaar names cannot include terms such as “Urf” or “Alias,” prefixes, military titles, ranks, designations, service details, honours, awards or decorations. Special characters, including dots, are also restricted.

Removing “Urf” or “Alias” is not treated as a simple formatting correction. Applicants must provide an affidavit and PoI for this type of change.

Full Name Changes Require Gazette Notification

A complete name change or a change that alters the holder’s identity requires more extensive verification. Under the revised procedure, applicants must submit a relevant Gazette notification along with applicable PoI.

UIDAI may authenticate the submitted identity documents, affidavits and Gazette notification, depending on the category of request. Applicants should follow the applicable SOP and confirm current document requirements through official UIDAI channels.

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UIDAI Revises Aadhaar Name Update Rules and Documentation: